About Hemingway Cozumel
Hemingway Cozumel is a beachfront restaurant-bar-nightclub perched on Cozumel’s north shore, just north of downtown San Miguel (cozinfo.com ). Housed under a giant thatched palapa roof, it offers a unique open-air Caribbean setting. The venue overlooks the lagoon and the sunset, giving diners and partygoers panoramic ocean views (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.es ). Opened in the late 2010s, Hemingway combines a casual beach vibe by day with a vibrant nightclub atmosphere after dark (cozinfo.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). It became a fast favorite for both tourists and locals, filling a gap in Cozumel’s Santa María Hotel Zone as a large waterfront spot. Guests praise its “fantastic food” and “spectacular sea view” (www.tripadvisor.es ), celebrating it as one of the island’s hottest new venues by 2019. Today Hemingway stands out for its signature Caribbean fusion cuisine and cocktails, highlighted by Cuban-inspired drinks like mojitos, reflecting its namesake’s legacy (www.tripadvisor.com ) (cozinfo.com ). As a top nightlife destination, it plays an important role in Cozumel’s social scene, attracting island residents and cruise visitors alike.
Events and Programming
Hemingway Cozumel is active every day from morning through late night. By daytime it functions as a beach bar and restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and drinks by the water (cozinfo.com ). In the evening it transforms into a lively nightclub. CozumelInfo calls it “one of the top nightlife venues on the island” (cozinfo.com ). Music is a major focus: the programmable often includes live bands or DJs spinning Latin, pop and Caribbean tunes. The outdoor dance floor invites guests to “dress up, go out, and get on the dance floor” (cozinfo.com ). Live music and DJs are common on weekends and holidays, though there is no fixed ticketed concert schedule – this is primarily a club and bar, not a formal theater. Signature drinks like margaritas, piña coladas and a Hemingway-style daiquiri fuel the party (cozinfo.com ). Regulars report frequent live salsa, reggae or rock nights and tropical DJ sets. Special events such as holiday celebrations and theme parties occur periodically; for example, big gatherings on New Year’s Eve or Carnaval often see the venue fully booked. Admission typically requires no advance ticket: guests simply show up, especially on party nights. (On very busy nights there may be a cover charge of roughly 100–200 MXN, but most nights are free entry.) It’s wise to check the venue’s Facebook page or call ahead for announced guest DJs or live acts. As Cozumel’s scene grows, Hemingway has begun hosting occasional specialty evenings or guest performances, solidifying its reputation for consistent entertainment in the 2020–2025 era (cozinfo.com ) (cozinfo.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Hemingway Cozumel does not sell traditional event tickets for entry; it operates primarily on a walk-in and reservation basis. For dining, visitors can reserve tables via the official website or by calling the venue – Hector’s, often via the “Reserva tu Mesa” link on the home page (hemingwaycozumel.com ). Reservations are recommended on weekends or holiday evenings. Typical dinner prices range moderate to mid-level; for example, full entrées often run in the MXN $200–$350 range and cocktails around MXN $120–$180 (these are ballpark figures based on reports (cozinfo.com )). The venue’s website sometimes offers special dining packages or drink specials. There is no advance ticket sale for general admission to the bar. If Hemingway hosts a special event (such as a guest artist or themed party), they may post tickets via social media, but this is rare. For most nights, arriving at least 30–60 minutes before peak hours is a good strategy to secure seating. Walk-up guests are welcome; for dinner one may have to wait at the bar during busy times. Note that although Hemingway is a restaurant-bar, a typical restaurant tipping culture applies – generally 10–15% of the bill in Mexican pesos. Prices are listed in pesos; US dollars are often accepted at a 1:20–1:25 exchange rate, but paying in pesos yields the best value. In summary, no special box-office or ticketing system is needed: eat and drink as desired, reserve if you want a guaranteed table, and just pay on site.
Seating and Layout
The layout at Hemingway Cozumel is open and tropical. The venue features a large palapa (thatched roof) covering the main area, with an expansive upper deck for sunset views. It is essentially two levels: the sprawling ground floor at beach level and an elevated second story. The ground level has tables and lounge chairs set amid palm trees, right on the sand and steps from the Caribbean Sea (cozinfo.com ). Sunbathing and even swimming (or snorkel gear) are common downstairs; in fact, some guests do shore dives directly off the small on-site beach (cozinfo.com ). Upstairs, wide wooden terraces overlook the water – this vantage point is famous for viewing Cozumel’s sunsets. According to reviews, “the second floor” offers the best ocean-view seats, and many advise grabbing a high chair there at dusk for cocktails and photos (tzalamcozumel.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Seating is mostly unassigned table service; general admission means you can turn up with drinks and sit at any free table or lounge seat. A few semi-private cabanas and banquette tables line the perimeter, which visitors sometimes book for groups. VIP or bottle-service areas are not formalized here the way a high-end nightclub would, but the largest tables (for 6–8) are typically towards the back under the palapa or by the bar. There is ample standing room around the dance floor in the middle. The design emphasizes outdoor airflow and views; even inside the roofed section the sides are open. Acoustically, it can be loud when the music’s blasting – sound carries over the open layout. If you prefer a quieter experience, midday and early evenings are calmer, and the band stage is not directly at dining tables. (By contrast, late-night dance hours are very energetic.) Groups often span the whole space. Because the floor is wooden and sometimes sandy in spots, comfortable footwear is advised. Overall, Hemingway’s viewing and seating layout is casual and MLB (Mixed Lounge/Beach) style: nothing obstructs the ocean view, and the second-story seating is the premier spot to avoid crowds, soak in the décor, and stay dry when waves come up.
Getting There and Parking
Hemingway Cozumel is situated at Avenida Rafael E. Melgar S/N in the Zona Hotelera Norte of San Miguel de Cozumel (www.tripadvisor.com ). The easiest way to find it is by referencing that address: it’s between the airport boulevard and the public Casita beach, a few blocks north of the old Aerofondo airport. For drivers, access is straightforward via the main oceanfront highway (Avenida Rafael E. Melgar); watch for signage or palm-tree markers for the venue. Street parking is available along the avenue – typically free – but spaces can fill up on weekend nights. There is no formal parking lot or valet, so arriving earlier in the evening helps find a spot. Many visitors instead rely on Cozumel’s public transportation: Ruta 1 & 2 buses run north from the cruise port and downtown Mall at frequent intervals (small transfer fee in pesos). They stop a short walk from Hemingway (ask the driver to alert you “Casita” or “Aeropuerto Norte,” the nearest landmarks). Taxis and ride-share apps like Uber also service the island. A taxi from the ferry terminal or town center to Hemingway costs on the order of 100–150 MXN ($5–$8 USD). From Cozumel Airport it’s only a 2–3 minute drive north. Rideshare cars can sometimes be hailed on the main road or by app. For cruise-ship visitors, shuttles to the northern hotel zone may not exist, so a taxi is advised. If you do drive, note that small private vehicles and scooters are common along this route. Bicycles are another option if you’re staying very local. Once parked or off the bus, the venue entrance is right at street level. Signage is prominent on Avenida Melgar. In summary:
★ Address: Av. Rafael E. Melgar S/N, San Miguel de Cozumel (north zone) (www.tripadvisor.com )
★ Public Transit: Cozumel’s bus (ruta) heading north on Rafael Melgar stops nearby. Taxi from town costs roughly MXN $100–$150.
★ Parking: Free street parking is usually available on-site, but spaces are first-come. No large lot or valet is provided.
★ Rideshare: Uber/Lyft work on Cozumel; also safe and reliable taxis. Star taxis use taxi stands or street hail.
Getting here early is wise if driving, due to limited parking. The oceanfront road is flat and well-lit at night. Hemingway itself has no underground parking, so all arrivals park alongside the open street or in any nearby hotel guest lots (only if space is visibly free).
Inside the Venue
On entry, expect a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. There is no formal lobby; you walk straight in under the palm-thatch roof. During daytime hours, the mood is laid-back – casual attire is fine and staff greet guests with beach-bar friendliness. After dark, it turns into a beachside disco lounge. Practically speaking:
Security/Entry: Typically minimal in the early evening. After 10pm security may use metal detectors and bag checks for safety, especially on busy weekends, but there is no ticket scanning or crowd-control barriers. You can arrive as a couple or small group without pre-registration.
ID Check: Mexican law requires ID for alcohol. Foreign passports or local IDs sufficed; strictly speaking, children and teens are allowed only in dining hours (roughly until 10pm) and must be with adults. After 10pm it becomes an 18+ environment. No children’s menu is provided, though families do come earlier.
Ambiance: Décor is colorful beach-chic with bamboo, nets, and hammocks. The stage (for live bands or DJ) is centrally located on the main floor, visible from most tables and the bar. Lighting varies: warm and dim in restaurant hours, strobe/colored lights after dark.
Food Service: A full kitchen operates all day. The menu spans breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night snacks – including seafood platters, grills, steaks, tacos, burgers, salads and tropical fruit dishes. CozumelInfo notes “a full food menu with a mix of Mexican and international dishes” (cozinfo.com ). Portions are generous. Vegetarian options exist (e.g. veggie burgers, salads). Service is standard table service by friendly bilingual staff. Dishes mentioned in reviews include grilled mahi mahi, tacos, and steaks, all described as “amazing” (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.es ).
Bar and Drinks: Hemingway has a full bar featuring house-special cocktails, wine and beer. Signature drinks include margaritas, piña coladas and a wide beer selection (cozinfo.com ). The “Hemingway Daiquiri” (with maraschino liqueur and grapefruit juice) is a highlighted item, reflecting Ernest’s Cuban tie. They also serve mojitos(originally Cuban) as an homage (www.tripadvisor.com ). Most cocktails range MXN $130–$180 in price. Happy hour specials are often offered early evening (check cards or ask staff). The bartenders are known among guests for blending authentic cocktails — one review noted the bartenders “know what they’re doing” with classics (www.tripadvisor.com ). Final bills can be paid by credit card or cash (pesos or USD accepted).
Facilities: Restrooms are located to the side of the main dining area; they are standard and kept reasonably clean by constant attention. There is no coat check or luggage storage, since the setting is casual. If coming from a cruise or excursion, limit bulky bags. A small cloak or beach towel can be stored at your table. The floors are raised wooden planks, often with loose sand, so watch your step. Free Wi-Fi is not advertised; expect weak or no Wi-Fi. Cell service in Cozumel is generally good, so use your phone’s data if needed.
Atmosphere: Throughout the night the vibe is festive. Live music or DJs keep the decibel level upbeat – be prepared for loud volumes late at night. Security staff circulate, especially by the bar area. It’s common to see servers wearing shorts in the day but switching to nicer attire at night. The crowds are mixed — couples on dates, groups of friends celebrating, and tourists on vacation. The venue forbids outside food or drink, and carry-in alcohol is illegal. Nudity or provocatively scant clothing is not allowed— it’s a resort restaurant, not a nude beach bar. Photography is welcomed (many guests take sunset selfies), though professional cameras with tripods may be discouraged without permission.Overall, inside Hemingway offers a seamless transition from dining to dancing – with efficient service, good food/drink quality, and an energetic party vibe after dark.
Nearby Amenities
Hemingway Cozumel is part of the north hotel zone (often called the “Hotel Zone” or Km 0-3 stretch), so there are several conveniences and attractions within a few blocks:
Restaurants & Bars: Directly next door is the Hard Rock Hotel Cozumel , which has its own Hard Rock Cafe-style restaurant and bar open to the public. It’s a short walk for additional dining or pre-drinks. A block east (back toward town) is the playful Flying Coconuts bar (famous for its outdoor dance floor and waterslide). Further south on Rafael Melgar, diners will find Cozumel Palace’s restaurants (upscale Mexican and seafood). In downtown San Miguel (~2.5 km away), numerous eateries range from cheap taco stands (El Coffee Cozumel) to fine dining (Buccanos Bar & Grill, La Cocay). For quick bites near Hemingway: look for local ceviche stands or casual beach grills along the waterfront road.
Hotels: Within a mile of Hemingway are several resorts. 500 m north is the boutique Hotel B Unique , whose rooftop bar (Sky Garden) is popular for sunset cocktails (cozinfo.com ). Presidente InterContinental Resort and Cozumel Palace are within 1–2 km south, offering private beaches and spa facilities. On the opposite side of the island, harder to reach by foot, are the Park Royal Cozumel and Occidental Grand Cozumel . Cruise passengers often stay at these coastal hotels. For more modest lodging, bed-and-breakfasts and condos line the streets near the airport (just 5 min south) and provide easy access to Hemingway by walking or scooter.
Shops & Services: A 5–10 minute walk south brings you to the commercial heart at El Cielo Mall (Main Street), where you’ll find grocery stores, pharmacies, and souvenir shops. There are a few gift shops and mini-markets sprinkled along Rafael Melgar as well. Any neighborhood minimarket will sell snacks, bottled water or sunscreen, and they also often offer ATM machines (though Hemingway itself does not have an ATM). If needed, there are bike and scooter rentals just blocks away, which many use to tour the island during the day.
Transportation: The bus station for Cozumel’s single bus line is in downtown, but in the hotel zone mini vans (colectivos) are not common. Taxis circle continually; late at night the best way to leave is to walk slightly toward a busier area (Hard Rock/Money Bar) and pick one up, or call one. Uber and Marley’s (the local ride-hail app) do have options on the island, which are especially useful if you’re staying farther away. Many travelers who have late flights across Mexico book airport shuttles; the Cozumel airport is only 3 min away, so an Uber fare to the airport hovers around MXN $60–$100.
For late-night dining, Cozumel’s restaurants generally shut by midnight; Hemingway itself is open until then, but if you’re looking for something afterward, try the few 24-hour taco stands downtown. If you arrive early in town, consider having dinner in the lively downtown and then take the short taxi to Hemingway to dance. Finally, because wildlife abounds, watch out for adventurous iguanas on the beachfront paths at dawn/dusk, and remember that mosquitos can surface in nearby foliage in the wet season (so use repellent). Overall, Hemingway sits amidst a small tourism hub: restaurants, hotels, and nightlife are all within a brief walk or ride, making it easy to pair a visit with other Cozumel experiences.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors make Hemingway Cozumel stand out in the local scene. First is the setting : it’s one of the few places in Cozumel with a truly immediate beachfront location, literally straddling a small sandy shelf and lagoon area (cozinfo.com ). The open-air palapa architecture marries traditional Caribbean style with modern comfort – you feel the ocean breeze and see the sunset from nearly everywhere. (www.tripadvisor.com ). This gives it a classic tropical lounge vibe that both guests and performers love. Second is the ambiance : the venue deliberately blends casual dining with upscale nightlife. By day it’s families enjoying brunch with sand between their toes; by night it’s packed with dancers under the stars, all without feeling like a disjoint festival. Restaurants on Cozumel often stop once the sun goes down, but Hemingway seamlessly transitions into party mode, making it a cultural fusion of a beach club and nightclub. Third is the history/cultural nod : although relatively new, the venue embraces the legend of Ernest Hemingway (who famously loved Cuba and its mojitos/daiquiris). Their drinks menu pays homage to his era, and this literary tie adds an exotic flair that resonates with well-traveled guests. Additionally, locals appreciate that in an otherwise ever-growing tourist town, Hemingway has paid attention to Cozumel’s laid-back rhythm – for instance, hosting occasional salsa nights that reflect the Mexican-Caribbean culture here. Finally, many travelers cite service and atmosphere as standout qualities. Guest reviews often thank staff by name (e.g. “Camarero Ulises” known for friendliness) and mention unbeatable customer care. In short, Hemingway Cozumel offers a memorable package: stunning seaside design, consistently good food/drinks, lively entertainment, and warm Mexican hospitality all rolled into one place. It’s a rare combination on the island’s north side – more than just a restaurant or bar, it’s become something of a local institution in its own right.
Visitor Tips and Information
To make the most of a trip to Hemingway Cozumel, keep these insider tips in mind:
Timing: Arrive in time for sunset (roughly 30 min before dusk) if you want the best seats upstairs for photo ops. The venue fills up on cruise-ship heavy days and weekends, so early arrival pays off. Opting for a midweek or off-season evening means more space.Dress Code: Daytime attire is casual beachwear (swimsuit, shorts, T-shirt or sundress, flip-flops are fine). After sundown, the scene gets dressier – think “resort casual.” Collared shirts for men, nice sandals or loafers (no flip-flops after dark, please), and smart-casual dresses or tops for women. Essentially, look neat and stylish when the sun goes down. Leather shoes are not required, but water-resistant shoes are wise if someone does decide to swim.Bring Essentials: Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must if you’re there before sunset. A light sweater or shawl can be handy once the shade hits and the breeze cools. Insect repellent is recommended in the early evening during the rainy season (mosquitoes can nibble near the plants by secluded tables). Waterproof phone cases or small change of clothes are handy if you plan to swim. Carrying a small ID and local currency (pesos) is wise.Money Matters: You can pay in cards or cash. Tips are typically left in cash; a 15–20% tip on the bill is customary for good service. While US dollars are accepted, the exchange rate given by merchants is often worse than 20:1, so using pesos (withdrawn from island ATMs before arriving) gets you a fair deal. Note that there is no currency exchange or ATM at Hemingway itself. (ATMs are found in town.)Food & Drink: Hemingway is known for generous portions. The Catch of the Day and steak dishes are popular, as are Mexican classics. Don’t miss trying the Cayman Island style snapper taco or the local ceviche if available. Ordering appetizers to share is a great way to try multiple items. Alcoholic drinks here are strong; a single cocktail is plenty before dinner. The house mojitos and margaritas come highly recommended. There’s no gamble on mixology talent – classic drinks taste authentic. Mocktails and fresh juices are also available for the designated drivers or younger crowd.Avoiding Mistakes: A common error is assuming Sunday is quiet – it’s often party time in Cozumel. Also, many overlook the second level and miss the best view. Make a beeline upstairs. It’s also easy to forget that cash is preferred for incidental purchases like bar snacks, so keep small bills on hand. Finally, don’t wait until last call to pay – the bar can get congested at closing time, so ask to settle your tab 10–15 minutes before last orders.Age Restrictions: Mexico’s legal drinking age is 18. Under-18s are welcome with adults during daylight hours, but after 10:00pm (10:45 on weekends) the place becomes effectively 18+ and probably won’t allow minors inside the club section. If traveling with teens for an early dinner, mention them when booking.Smoking: Smoking is generally allowed in open-air areas. You can light up at any table or in the bar. This is an outdoor bar/club, so if you’re sensitive to smoke, the venue is fairly ventilated; seating farther from the bar or facing the ocean will minimize exposure.Accessibility: There are ramps leading up to the main dining area from street level, and the interior aisles are reasonably wide. One restroom is on the first floor (no elevator to second floor), so individuals using wheelchairs may find the ground level usable. Note that uneven wooden decks and some sand may pose mobility challenges. It’s advisable to call ahead if you have specific accessibility needs; the staff can suggest best dining spots and route.Connectivity: Hemingway doesn’t advertise free Wi-Fi, and cell reception indoors may be weak. If staying connected is important, plan to use your mobile data or have a local SIM. Charging points are not provided, so make sure devices are topped up beforehand.Other Tips: It’s okay to make photos and short videos – social media shots of the sunset are welcomed. Live-streaming a band performance is allowed in small amounts but commercial recording is not. Do bring your sense of adventure; you may see locals dancing beachside at dawn, or the occasional friendly iguana wandering through the patio. Finally, note that Hemingway follows Mexico’s general weather policies: it’s an open-air venue, so in the rare heavy rain they might close early or pause after 10pm; check the forecast and ask staff if stormy weather is expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cover charge or ticket required for Hemingway Cozumel?
No general admission ticket or cover is needed. Hemingway operates mostly as a walk-in bar/restaurant. You only pay for what you order. On very busy nightclub nights (such as special events or holidays), a small cover charge (PK $100–200) might apply, but most evenings are free entry. Reservations are recommended for dining, but you don’t buy “tickets” in advance.
What are the opening days and hours of Hemingway Cozumel?
Hemingway Cozumel is open every day. Typically they open around breakfast time (8–9am) and stay open until about midnight (12am). Exact hours can vary or change with the season, but plan on 8:30am–12:00am (Mon–Sat) and 9:00am–12:00am on Sundays. It’s wise to call ahead for final hours on days around holidays, as closing time may be earlier on slow days.
How do I make a reservation or buy tickets at Hemingway Cozumel?
There is no online ticketing system. If you want to guarantee a table (especially for dinner), you can call the venue or use the reservation feature on their website. No payment or deposit is usually required to book; you pay at the end of your meal. For events (if any), the venue will announce details on social media. Otherwise, just walk in and request seating or stand at the bar.
What is the seating layout and best area to sit?
Hemingway has two main levels: a beach-level patio and an elevated deck under the palapa roof. The majority of tables face the ocean or stage. For sunset views and photos, the upper deck is ideal. If you want to swim or be right on the sand, sit on the lower level. Closer to the back and sides are larger group tables and the bar area, while the center is near the dance music. General admission means any open table; for a guaranteed spot, arriving early is best.
Is parking available at or near Hemingway Cozumel?
Hemingway does not have a private parking lot. The good news is the venue is on a public street (Avenida Rafael E. Melgar) where curb parking is mostly free. You can usually find parking spots just in front of or around the restaurant. However, on busy nights spaces fill up. If the street is full, you may need to park a block or two away on side streets. An alternate plan is to use a taxi or rideshare service to avoid parking concerns altogether.
How can I get to Hemingway Cozumel by public transport?
Take Cozumel’s public bus (ruta) that runs along Avenida Melgar northbound. Riders from town can catch it near the central ferry terminal or downtown and ride up to the Hotel Zone. Ask to be dropped off at or near the airport intersection (plaza “Aeropuerto Norte”). From there it is a very short walk west to Hemingway (look for the palm-thatch roof). Alternatively, shared taxis (vans) are not common here, so street buses or a regular taxi are best.
What is the dress code at Hemingway Cozumel?
During the day, any beach casual wear is fine – think shorts, t-shirts, swimsuits, sundresses and sandals. After sunset the atmosphere becomes more upscale casual. Many visitors switch into nicer footwear and a smart-casual outfit for the evening. Collared shirts and long pants (or nice shorts) for men, and sundresses or blouses for women, are appropriate. No strict formal dress code, but avoid going out in bathing suits or flip-flops late at night.
Is Hemingway Cozumel child-friendly?
Yes, during daytime hours teens and children are welcome (it serves breakfast and lunch). The staff is used to families eating early. However, after about 10pm (when the bar gets busy and music turns up) it’s primarily an 18+ crowd. The club format isn’t suitable for young children. If you want to bring kids, plan dinner before late evening entertainment starts and be aware there is no special children’s menu.
Does Hemingway Cozumel serve food and drinks all day?
Yes. Hemingway opens early (for example, breakfast is available around 8–9am) and continues serving through lunch, dinner and late-night hours. You can enjoy cocktails and full meals at almost any time while it’s open. The kitchen’s extensive menu covers breakfast items, tacos, seafood, steaks, burgers and more. Drink service is likewise continuous; there are never formal “breaks” in service between meal times.
Does Hemingway Cozumel accept credit cards and IDs?
Yes, major credit cards are accepted for meals and drinks (Visa, MasterCard, etc.). However, small cover charges or tips are often better paid with cash. It’s wise to carry some pesos or dollars. For age verification, Mexico requires patrons to be 18 to drink. Always have a photo ID (passport, driver’s license) if you plan to drink alcohol. They may check IDs at the door late at night.
Are there toilets and is the space wheelchair accessible?
Yes, restrooms are on-site and accessed from the main dining area. The first-floor leads directly from street level via gentle ramps, so wheelchairs can typically reach the main dining and bar area. One accessible restroom is available on the ground floor. Note, however, that the second floor is accessed by stairs only, and the floors are wooden planks (with some sand in places), so access to all areas may be limited for those with mobility issues. It’s best to call ahead if in doubt, as the vibe and seating allow flexible arrangements on the ground level.
Can I smoke at Hemingway Cozumel?
Yes. Since Hemingway is essentially open-air, smoking is allowed. People routinely smoke cigarettes and cigars at their tables, especially later in the evening. The venue is not enclosed, so smoking is generally acceptable everywhere there is seating. If you prefer to avoid smoke, the breeze usually disperses it; seating farther from the bar tends to be less smoky.
Is free Wi-Fi available?
Hemingway Cozumel does not offer a public Wi-Fi network. As an open-air bar/club, it relies on guests’ cellular data for internet access. Most Mexican cell carriers (and international roaming plans) have coverage here. If you need Wi-Fi, there are plenty of cafés downtown that provide it, but at Hemingway you should plan to use your phone’s data connection instead.
Is there a difference between Hemingway and other Cozumel bars?
Yes. Hemingway stands out by being right on the beach and offering both a restaurant and nightclub under one roof. Unlike downtown bars, it has a large palapa, open-air café, and even a small reef lagoon you can swim in. Its musical vibe is tailored to dance and celebration more than some quieter beach bars. Reviewers note real oceanfront sunset views and good food at moderate prices. (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.es ). So it’s both a place to eat like a family and a place to party like a club, which many visitors find unique in Cozumel.
How early should I get there for sunset or dinner?
To catch the sunset, arrive about 30 minutes before sunset time, which changes throughout the year (roughly 5:30–7:00pm). For dinner seating or lake view, coming by 6–6:30pm is good on a busy day. On cruise ship days (when Cozumel has many visitors), Hemingway can get crowded by 7–8pm. If dining is the goal on a crowded evening, an early dinner (around 6pm) ensures you get a table; otherwise just be prepared to wait at the bar a bit.
Can I dance at Hemingway Cozumel?
Absolutely. Hemingway has a lively dance floor area where patrons often dance after dark. Salsa, reggaeton, and contemporary hits are played by DJ or band, and guests regularly dance right by the tables. Shoes are recommended on the wooden floor, but many people leave their chairs at the edge and dance barefoot in casual fun. The crowd is generally welcoming to those who want to move!
